Introduction / History

The name Aheria means "hunter" because this was the main occupation of this group prior to the 1920s. However, in 1920, hunting was banned, which led to the disappearance of their principal occupation.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The community now engages mainly in farming. They supplement their income by selling firewood. They are a scheduled caste, low in status among other Hindus.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Aherias are solidly Hindu. Hinduism accommodates local religious beliefs and the worship of any of thousands of spirits. The Aherias regularly visit the temple of their tribal deity, Vijaisan Mataji. They believe this deity has the power to protect or to harm them.

What Are Their Needs?

People can expect spiritual opposition as workers present Jesus to the Hindu communities of India. They need to be prayerfully prepared.

Prayer Items

As a scheduled caste, the Aherias remain one of the disadvantaged groups in India. Pray they would overcome this stigma and put their identity in Christ rather than their community status.
Pray especially for an improving literacy rate.
Pray they would come to understand and believe God's Son, Jesus, who will give them life to the full if they place their faith in him.
Pray that Indian Christians will adopt the Aherias for regular prayer and outreach.
Pray the Holy Spirit would soften their hearts to open them fully to his revelation.

References

Scripture Prayers for the Aheria in India.